Mansized 89 rockhopper comp.

[Tootyred]

This popped up today, and i just couldn't resist. My era, my size and my kinda money.

Now ive got her home, im in two minds as what to do!

Its actually far more original than i was expecting, only missing the rear wheel (sadly replaced not long ago with a mavic 317 as the hub went pop), the pedals and the tyres.

Decals are long gone, except the shop one.....a place i remember well from my youth.

My plan was to buy it for the proper sized frame (24" seat tube anybody), and rebuild it as an all road tourer with a selection of parts, but now im starting to wonder if it might be nicer to put it back how it was/is.

Frame needs a bit of investigation, that might help the decision.

Beer, sofa, thought, needed.

 

[gtturbo]

I would keep it as is but then I'm a big fan of 89 Spesh and Marin's. I might have the correct rim if you wanted to rebuild the back wheel although from memory it may well be a 36 and the stock wheels were 32. I bought it years ago as I had the same frameset but in the end cheated and just bought a complete 89 Rockhopper comp.

 

[Tootyred]

That would be a great help if you do have a rim, regardless of direction i take, as ive got a pair of deoree II hubs sat on the shelf, by chance too.

 

[gtturbo]

Leave it with me. I think they are in my folks shed. Next time I pop round I will take a look.

 

[Tootyred]

Rust investigation today....how bad is it.?

Well, there's some fantastic " pustules " bubbling up; but im glad to report even the worst is only skin deep. Even down the tubes looks ok, but ive not gone into the workshop and borrowed the fibre endoscope yet.

The bike was clearly a commuter and i would think, by the endless chips, its been lent on every post from here to timbuktu.

However, one things for sure, there's no way im saving the original paint....oh well...that's another decision to make......Penfold the RAL chart!

 

[Tootyred]

Guards, bar ends etc are off and its back onto some suitably thin period Amberwalls.

Thought an unhindered view might help my cogitation.

Been out on it for a few miles and rides surprisingly well.

 

[Tootyred]

Well, im going down the build it my way route. Restoring it " as catalogue " would mean too many compromises for my end goal and use.

 

[The History Man]

My way is always better.

 

[Tootyred]

My way is always better.

Your way is and always will be the best.....Channelling my inner history man for this one.